New York racing has a showcase of talent that just keeps getting better and better. Saratoga is putting on a show this summer that has me scratching my head to remember when there has been such action. – Maybe it’s Triple Crown fever, or the end of summer battles heating up, or maybe it’s the Breeders’ Cup setting up shop at Keeneland for one of the best racing experiences of a lifetime. – This handicapper has been chomping at the bit, and everyday is like Christmas and my birthday all rolled into one. – I guess you get the picture as this has been a summer to remember. With that in mind, here are some runners who caught my eye and require a wager next time out. – Best of luck !

Gulfstream Park – 8/7/15 – Race #3 – #3 7f on the main track

Princess Malia = Eddie Castro had his mount along the rail in a perfect striking spot. She lacked room at the 1/4 pole, and was hard held until the 1/8th pole where he was finally able to allow his mount to take flight. She split foes gamely and came flying for the show money. – If a cleaner trip is in the cards, she’ll make it down the lane next out.

Del Mar – 8/7/15 – Race #2 – #6 – 1 mile on the main track

Big Brown Rosie = Rafael Bejarano had to tap on the brakes more than mid-town traffic in Los Angeles. There was a series of being steadied, lacking a clear path, and being restrained that makes me want to toss this race out completely and look for next race. She’ll have plenty in the tank after this terrible trip.

Belterra Park – 8/8/15 – Race #3 – #1 – 5 1/2f on the main track.

Takemetohollywood = Perry Ouzts for the Bill Connelly barn usually equals good things. This pure white Thoroughbred was no exception. Ouzts saved ground, and began a stretch run that was sure to catch your eye. He was bested by a head down the lane, and ran a winner’s race finishing a tough second. This race showed a great deal of heart, and the connections are worth a play every time they come to the paddock together. Perry’s wife Toni works for Team Connelly, and they work together as a well oiled machine. This is a play back for many reasons, and for a trainer who quietly owns 1,000 career wins. I’ll bet early and often next out.

Saratoga – 8/8/15 – Race #3 – #4 – 6f on the main track

Economic Model = Irad Ortiz in the irons for Chad Brown is starting to look like money in the bank. This two-year-old hit the gate at the break and settled out nicely. Usually a baby calls it a day after a battle in the starting gate, but the maturity to settle down and get back to business is a very good sign. The rider gave his mount the “cue” to run, and was tipped off the rail for clear sailing. Down the lane was a strong hand ride and a trip to the winner’s circle. – Bet this one right back climbing up the ladder. This baby has the look of good things to come.

Saratoga – 8/8/15 – Race #6 – #9 – 7F on the main track.

Havana = Cornelio Velasquez stalked a perfect trip after being bumped around at the start. He got his mount to relax and get into the bit. It was at this time he was forced to alter course in deep stretch as Juba (the pace setter) was in a bumping match with eventual winner Takajo. With a little cleaner trip, you can follow this one right back as Todd Pletcher will have this runner ready to roll.